Why Living in Guildford as a Student is the Best

Living in Guildford as a student feels a bit like finding a hidden gem that somehow ticks all the right boxes. There’s something about the town that just fits,  not too big, not too small, with a charm that quietly draws you in. It’s a place where student life doesn’t just happen inside lecture halls, but spills out into every street, café, and green corner.

Whether you’re new to university life or already settled in, Guildford has a way of making you feel at home while keeping things fresh. What makes it the best? Well, that’s where things get interesting. From unexpected perks to everyday comforts, there’s more to this town than meets the eye. Let’s take a closer look.

Top Notch Education

When it comes to education, Guildford truly shines. The University of Surrey is consistently ranked among the top UK universities, known for its high teaching standards and strong focus on employability.

In fact, it boasts an impressive student satisfaction rate ,reflecting the quality of both academic and personal support. The campus is home to cutting-edge research centres and labs, alongside well-equipped lecture halls and seminar rooms.

Students also have access to the spacious Library and Learning Centre, which offers round-the-clock study areas and digital resources. For a balance of academics and wellbeing, Surrey Sports Park provides top-class facilities including a gym, swimming pool and group fitness classes. It’s a place designed to help you thrive.

Plus with amazing student accommodation options like that at EVO student , you will never have to worry about having a safe place to stay!

Student Life

Student life in Guildford is full of energy, connection, and shared experiences. The University of Surrey’s campus is alive with activity, from societies that cater to every interest to cultural festivals, and casual meetups that turn strangers into friends.

Whether you’re joining a debate club, dancing at a live music gig, or browsing the community market, there’s always something happening.

The town itself has a friendly, student-welcoming vibe, with cafés, pubs, and indie shops that feel like local favourites within weeks. It’s easy to find your people here, whether you’re the outgoing type or just dipping your toes into campus life.

In Guildford, student life goes beyond lectures and becomes something you genuinely look forward to.

Safety

Guildford offers peace of mind with its reputation as one of the safer student towns in the UK. The streets are clean, well-lit, and easy to navigate, whether you’re heading to a late seminar or walking home from dinner with friends.

The town centre is compact and walkable, so getting around doesn’t require much effort.

Public transport is also a major plus. Trains to London take just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weekend trips, internships, or catching a show in the city. Local buses run regularly, and cycling is a popular option too. For students who value convenience, safety.

Cultural Scene

Guildford may be small, but its cultural scene packs a punch. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre hosts everything from thought-provoking plays to feel-good musicals, while independent cinemas like the Electric Theatre offer a cosy spot for film lovers.

Comedy nights, spoken word events, and live music gigs pop up throughout the year, creating plenty of chances to try something new or have a laugh with friends.

The town is also dotted with indie shops, vintage markets, and creative spaces that give it real personality. It’s not as hectic as London, and that’s part of the charm.

You get variety, inspiration, and atmosphere without the overwhelm. For students who love a bit of culture, Guildford’s got a surprisingly bold side.

Great Food

Guildford is a treat for food lovers and coffee seekers alike. You’ll find everything from tasty international street food to comforting pub classics, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options too.

Student favourites include Thai Terrace for flavour-packed meals with a view, and Burrito Loco for quick bites between lectures. Whether you’re fuelling up for a deadline or catching up with friends, Guildford’s got you covered.

Events

Living in Guildford means there’s always something going on. From fresher fairs packed with freebies to live open mic nights, the calendar is full of ways to get involved. Music lovers can enjoy seasonal festivals and pop-up gigs, while foodies will love the regular street food events that bring global flavours to the town centre.

The Guildford Fringe Festival adds a creative buzz in summer, with theatre, comedy, and art shows taking over quirky venues. Many local shops, cafés, and activities offer student discounts, so you can enjoy more for less.

Whether you’re looking to explore with friends or try something completely new, living in Guildford gives you easy access to fun, affordable experiences all year round.

Nature and Scenery

Living in Guildford puts nature and adventure right at your doorstep. The town is surrounded by the breath-taking Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty perfect for weekend hikes, scenic walks, and peaceful picnics.

If you’re into cycling, there are plenty of trails to explore, from gentle routes to more challenging climbs. The River Wey offers chances to try kayaking or paddle boarding, adding a splash of excitement to your afternoons.

Fancy a spontaneous getaway? Guildford’s train links make it easy to reach the coast for a beach day or explore nearby countryside towns. Whether you’re craving fresh air, wide-open views, or a break from the books, living in Guildford gives you endless ways to reset and recharge.

Living in Guildford as a student offers the perfect balance of academic excellence, vibrant community, and everyday adventure. From top-tier campus facilities to spontaneous countryside escapes, the town blends convenience with charm in a way few places can.

Whether you’re here to study hard, meet new people, or explore something new every weekend, Guildford gives you the space to grow, connect, and enjoy the journey. It’s more than just a place to study , it’s a place where memories are made. If you’re looking for a student life that truly delivers, Guildford might just be your perfect fit.